The best things to do in Auckland

What is it? Looming over the city at 328 metres high, the Sky Tower is Auckland’s most iconic building – and you can spot it from almost anywhere in the city. Sure, it’s a total mainstream tourist attraction, but the 360-degree views from the observation decks on level 60 are breathtaking.

Why go? Start your adventure on level 51, the Main Observation Level, where you can take in panoramic views of Auckland’s key landmarks, the 50-odd volcanoes, and 80 kilometres of city and coastline in every direction. From there, take it up a notch at the Sky Deck on level 60 – the highest viewing platform at 220 metres above street level. 

Time Out tip: Don’t limit your visit to the lookouts; indulge in ice cream goodness from Lewis Road Creamery at the level 53 café, or drink in the sunset scenes from SkyBar, New Zealand’s highest bar, on level 50.

What is it? New Zealand’s highest jump is a daredevil’s dream! Standing 192 metres above Auckland, this bungy-jump-inspired experience (without the scary dangling part at the end) offers thrill seekers the chance for a controlled free fall off the country’s tallest building. 

Why go? To feel like Superman, of course. In the ultimate leap of faith, you’ll fall at speeds of up to 85 kilometres per hour before coming to a smooth landing at the base of the Sky Tower. As a reward for being brave, you’ll score free entry to the Sky Tower observation decks, so you can properly soak in the views without plummeting through the sky.

Time Out tip: If you’re not quite up for the jump, you can still get your heart pumping on the SkyWalk. You’ll inch your way around a 192-metre-high platform, clinging to nothing but your harness, while scoring epic 360-degree views (and brag-worthy photos).

What is it? Auckland’s tallest and most-visited volcanic peak, Maungawhau – meaning ‘mountain of the whau tree’ – draws more than 1 million visitors each year. Once one of the largest and most elaborate Māori pā (fortified settlements) in the region, you can now walk the rim of its dramatic 50-metre-deep crater, which last erupted 15,000 years ago.

Why go? We reckon Maungawhau is the city’s most spectacular sunset spot. Standing 143 metres tall, it offers absolutely incredible 360-degree vistas of the city, harbour, coastline and beyond. Maungawhau is an incredibly sacred site for the Māori community, so stick to the boardwalk and take time to visit the Te Ipu Kōrero o Maungawhau (Maungawhau Visitor Experience Centre) and the Friend & Whau Café, housed in the historic Kiosk building near the upper car park.

Time Out tip: Deepen your understanding of Maungawhau’s fascinating cultural significance by joining a 90-minute walking tour led by an Ngāti Whātua guide.

What is it? Every year, Auckland unveils a list of the city’s top 100 most iconic dishes – all nominated by locals. Selected from more than 3,000 entries, these signature dishes showcase the best of Auckland’s food scene across a range of cuisines. 

Why go? There’s no better way to immerse yourself in a new city than by eating your way through it. With the 100 Iconic Auckland Eats as your guide, you’ll have the locals’ best secrets right at your fingertips. Two dishes have held their spot on the list since its inception in 2020, including the raspberry lamingtons from Sugar at Chelsea Bay and Depot’s legendary fish sliders. Other crowd favourites include Azabu’s volcano sushi rolls, Eden Noodles’ dumplings in spicy sauce, Gemmayze Street’s babaganouj, Hello Beasty’s prawn and crab toast, Pici’s cacio e pepe and Lot Nineteen’s cinnamon scrolls.

Time Out tip: Build your ultimate food bucket list by exploring all past additions of the 100 Iconic Auckland Eats here.

What is it? The best way to see Auckland is on two wheels, and we reckon these e-bike tours are the way to go. Guided by local experts, you’ll take in all the sights and sounds without getting stuck in traffic or huffing up hills. A nifty headset allows you to enjoy engaging commentary along the way. There are tours to suit all abilities, ranging from The Easy Rider waterfront tour to the popular City Loop.

Why go? Given Auckland is built on and around volcanoes, it’s pretty hilly. Skip the sweat and the traffic and explore the city like a local while the e-bike does the hard work for you. On the popular City Loop tour, you’ll cruise through some of Auckland’s favourite neighbourhoods and landmarks, including Maungawhau/Mount Eden, where you can take in breathtaking 360-degree views of the skyline. Our favourite part was riding along Te Ara i Whiti – or ‘The Lightpath’ to locals – a hot-pink cycleway bridge that pulses with LED lights as you cycle across at night. 

Time Out tip: If you love the bright lights, Power to the Pedal runs a unique City Lights tour. You’ll ride past the twinkling lights of Britomart, Queens Wharf, the Harbour Bridge and more.

What is it? Home to more than 18,000 artworks, Auckland Art Gallery holds the world’s largest permanent collection of New Zealand art. Across four floors, you can explore historic and contemporary masterpieces from both Māori and Pacific Island artists alongside international talents. Entry to the public exhibitions is free daily, and the gallery also hosts weekly events, including curator tours, yoga sessions, drop-in drawing and kids’ workshops.

Why go? See the Pacific through fresh eyes by walking the halls of Auckland’s leading art gallery, open daily from 10am to 5pm. On the ground floor, you can check out Brett Graham’s monumental sculpture Wasterlands and its accompanying video work displaying the devastating wetlands fire of the Waikato River. Upstairs, you’ll find exhibitions representing treasured Māori portraits and the coastal Aotearoan way of life. Auckland Art Gallery is also a jewel box for incredible historic international art through both travelling and donated exhibitions.

Time Out tip: Head to level three to explore The Robertson Gift: Paths through Modernity, an impressive collection of donated artworks by influential modern European artists, including Paul Cezanne, Paul Gauguin, Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso.

What is it? An epic 3.7-kilometre coastal hike in the Waitakere Ranges of West Auckland offering breathtaking views of Manukau Harbour, Awhitu Peninsula and the black sands of Whatipū Beach. It’s a one-hour drive from the CBD without traffic.

Why go? The hike isn't easy, but it’s totally worth it. The out-and-back Ōmanawanui Track is one of our Australian Travel Editor Melissa Woodley’s top five hikes of all time. Starting at Whatipū Beach car park, you’ll scale rocky ridges, wander through native forest and climb a total of 2,420 steps. It’s bound to get your heart pumping, but the views at the top are the ultimate reward. At 347 metres above sea level, the highest point boasts 360-degree vistas of the wild Waitakere Ranges National Park, black-sand Whatipū Beach and the Manukau bar, which was the site of Aotearoa New Zealand’s worst maritime disaster. You’ll probably say “wow” to yourself at least 50 times – maybe more if you’re not too out of breath. Allow around three hours for the full walk, and pack plenty of water, snacks and sunscreen.

Time Out tip: This hike makes for the perfect day trip from Auckland CBD, but you’ll need a car to get there. Hire a vehicle for the day from Cross Country Rentals, who offer 24/7 support and don’t charge for additional drivers.

What is it? For more than 15 years, Auckland’s most knowledgeable foodie, Elle Armon-Jones, has been introducing travellers to the city’s best markets, cafés, restaurants and bars (dream job, right?!). She and her passionate guides run daily tours, including the flagship Tastebud Tour, where you’ll sample delicious goodies while hearing stories from New Zealand’s top chefs, farmers, roasters, brewers and chocolatiers.

Why go? Skip the hangry slog from museum to gallery to park to waterfront and let a locally-led food tour show you the city – and feed you along the way. You’ll avoid the overpriced and underwhelming tourist trap restaurants and discover hidden gems and local favourites. The first stop on The Big Foody’s weekend Tastebud Tour is Parnell Farmers’ Market, where you’ll meet talented artisans and producers like Dolly Mumma and Mahurangi Honey. Then it's brunch time at San Ray on Ponsonby Road (the cornbread is a winner), followed by Korean bites in the city and vegan chocolate to finish things off. The best part of the tour – apart from all the delicious food, of course – is that your guide will talk you through the architecture, culture and character that make up this exciting city.

Time Out tip: The Big Foody also runs tours in Wellington and Dunedin, so you won’t ever go hungry during your travels.

What is it? Auckland’s leading (and free) museum that offers a special insight into New Zealand’s rich history, geography, people and culture. It’s perched majestically on a hill in the delightful Auckland Domain – one of the city’s prettiest parks – with a war memorial out the front adding extra significance.

Why go? Whether you have an hour to spare or a full day, it’s worth popping into the Auckland Museum. It’s one of the few places in Auckland where you get such a clear visual understanding of traditional Māori village life, complete with houses and a magnificent, ornate waka (canoe). The museum’s three main levels each tell a different story: Pacific Peoples and cultures on the ground floor, New Zealand’s natural and evolutionary journey on level one, and the nation’s military history on level two. You can join daily tours or visit one of its touring exhibitions, spotlighting everything from ancient civilisations to the world’s wildlife.

Time Out tip: Don’t miss Living Taonga, an immersive Māori cultural experience that brings traditions to life through song, dance, poi and ritual. This ticketed experience is held twice daily at 11am and 1.30pm.

What is it? An island paradise with its own warm microclimate, located just 40 minutes by ferry from Auckland CBD. Teeming with boutique wineries, it also has 92 square kilometres of breathtaking beaches, 100 kilometres of scenic walks and magnificent Instagram-worthy views. Waiheke is Auckland’s most popular day trip, though you’ll be tempted to stay the night in a cosy beach house or laid-back hostel.

Why go? Some ferry over to Waiheke just to languish lazily in the clear water and bask in the sun. For others, it’s all about the wine. Join an organised tour or drive yourself to popular vineyards, including Mudbrick, Man O’ War and Stonyridge (Tantalus Estate has tremendous craft beer too). On Saturday morning, hit up the markets to find quirky and fun treasures, and if you’re an oyster fan, don’t miss Te Matuku’s oyster farm.

Time Out tip: For something active, tackle the scenic 5.5-kilometre Matiatia to Oneroa headland walk. It starts at the ferry terminal and ends at Oneroa village, where you’ll find a white sandy beach perfect for swimming, kayaking and a picnic in the sun.

What is it? More than just a museum, the immersive experience honours the enduring mana (prestige) of the black jersey and the remarkable rugby players who’ve worn it. You’ll step into the shoes of the legendary All Blacks and the mighty Black Ferns and discover why the sport is at the heart of New Zealand culture.

Why go? This is your chance to walk in the path of legends and see what it takes to become a rugby champion in New Zealand. Fun for both first-timers and mega fans, these guided tours showcase the profound connection between the game and local identity. After hearing stories from NZ’s rugby greats via cutting-edge technology, you’ll come face-to-face with the All Blacks and Black Ferns in a breathtaking, 180-degree multi-sensory Haka performance. It left us with goosebumps. If you’re feeling inspired, you can finish off by testing your skills with interactive agility, speed and precision games. 

Time Out tip: Here, you’ll also find Auckland’s biggest All Black merch store – so you can take a piece of that spirit home with you.

What is it? A trendy strip for eating, drinking, shopping and people-watching, Ponsonby is where cool kids of all ages hang out. The 1.7-kilometre road is just a 30-minute walk from Auckland’s CBD, and is filled with trendy cafés, high-fashion boutiques and local galleries.

Why go? Start at Ponsonby Central for a peek at local Auckland life. At this bustling food-and-retail space, you’ll find everything from Argentine barbecue to German pastries and Thai street food. Outside, you’ll find a wide range of independent stores and plenty of fascinating characters. Scope out second-hand reads at The Women’s Bookshop, discover statement homewares at Shut the Front Door, hunt for vintage treasures at Tatty’s, and find your perfect fragrance at locally-owned Curionoir. From AM to PM, Ponsonby delivers with eateries and bars galore: we recommend San Ray and Bodega for brunch, Eden Noodles and Prego for dinner, or The Broken Lantern for drinks.

Time Out tip: Leave room for a sweet treat. Duck Island Ice Cream’s very first scoop shop is on Ponsonby Road, churning up 24 fun flavours, like toasted marshmallow, fairy bread and blueberry buttermilk butter cake.

What is it? Karangahape Road – or simply K’ Road to locals – is Ponsonby’s eclectic sister (and the heart of our LGBTIQA+ community). Named one of Time Out’s coolest streets in the world in 2022, it’s packed with personality, colour, and some of the city’s best restaurants and bars. The street is just a 15-minute walk from the city, sitting adjacent to Ponsonby.

Why go? There’s always something happening along K’ Road. One of Auckland’s buzziest streets, it’s famous for its vibrant street art, vintage boutiques, one-of-a-kind gift stores, live music venues and world-class food scene. Take your pick from favourites like Coco’s Cantina, Pici, Otto, Apero, Satya Chai Lounge, Cotto or Gemmayze Street.

Time Out tip: Make sure to explore St Kevin’s Arcade, a heritage Art Deco beauty that’s now home to some of K’ Road’s coolest shops, eateries and bars.

What is it? A creamy, icy experience like no other. Think edible works of art that taste as good as they look. Everything at Giapo is 100 per cent gluten-free, from the iconic hokey pokey – recently inducted into the Iconic Auckland Eats 2025 hall of fame – to the impressive sculptured chocolate cones (like the Insta-famous Colossal Squid) that will send your Instagram into a flurry of envy.

Why go? This is no ordinary ice cream shop; it’s an experience full of surprises. Giapo changes the menu weekly, so while you’re sure to find the usual suspects (although they're anything but usual), you'll also be delighted with seasonal innovations. The hokey pokey is the real star; sweet with slightly bitter caramelised chunks that make it hard to stop at one scoop. Other standouts include Californian pistachio, studded with roasted nuts, and the zingy Te Puke kiwifruit, which just so happens to be vegan. Get your scoop on a cookie or brownie, drizzle it with chocolate and buono, or go all out with a statement cone. We’re talking everything from selfie cones and wearable cones to sky tower cones and the octopus-shaped Colossal Squid. They're almost too pretty to eat, but too delicious to resist.

Time Out tip: Every Wednesday at 12.15pm, you can join Giapo’s free Tasting Club. You’ll be the first to try his latest creations – whether a seasonal scoop or new baked good – before they officially hit the menu.

What is it? Auckland’s youngest and largest volcanic cone, which emerged unexpectedly from the sea around 600 years ago. It’s home to the world’s largest pōhutukawa forest, which you can explore via multiple scenic hikes. 

Why go? While it’s only a 25-minute ferry from downtown Auckland, this volcanic island feels like it’s stranded in the middle of nowhere – and that’s part of its charm. Our favourite way to explore the island is via the seven-kilometre Rangitoto Summit hike. Beginning at Rangitoto Wharf, the trail climbs through lava fields and pōhutukawa forest before reaching the summit. Here, you can sit back and soak in panoramic views of Auckland and the Mārākau Islands of the Hauraki Gulf. On the way down, take a short detour to the black lava caves – just make sure to bring a torch. The hike takes roughly one hour each way, plus 30 minutes extra for the lava caves detour.

Time Out tip: Pack plenty of snacks and water as there are no shops or bubblers on the island.

What is it? Hugging the waterfront, the walk from Britomart to North Wharf, through Viaduct Harbour, takes you through several of Auckland’s most bustling areas.

Why go? Start your adventure in Britomart, a bustling neighbourhood with slick boutiques, popular cafés (shout-out to Pie Rolla’s, Daily Bread and The Store), New Zealand’s first five Green Star Hotel and a fabulous Saturday market. From there, meander along the waterfront to Commercial Bay for designer shopping and an impressive food court. Next, make your way to Wynyard Quarter, another popular precinct with markets, outdoor movies and food trucks at the silos in summer. As you make your way to North Wharf via the sub-tropical Jellicoe Street Rain Garden and Silo Park, grab a bevvie at one of the seaside eateries to enjoy while ogling at the boats. Finish your waterfront walk with fish and chips at the iconic Auckland Fish Market.

Time Out tip: Pack your swimmers! Near Wynyard Quarter, you’ll find Karanga Plaza Harbour Pool – a free, 33-metre-long swimming spot with lanes for laps and a jumping platform for those just keen on a splash. There are toilets and cold showers at the nearby Karanga Plaza.

What is it? A charming seaside north shore suburb that you can find by travelling only ten minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland. Head here for a cute beach, lots of cafés and an opportunity to gaze in awe at one of the best views of the city.

Why go? You can’t leave Auckland without at least one (albeit short in this case) ferry ride. Climb Mount Victoria for the best views of Auckland, cool off with a swim at Cheltenham Beach, sample sweetness at Devonport Chocolates, and if you’re feeling brave, explore the slightly spooky military tunnels at North Head. Grab a coffee or an ice cream by the water before heading back on the ferry.

Time Out tip: Try to catch a show at The Vic Vintage Theatre and Cinema – the oldest purpose-built cinema still standing in the Southern Hemisphere.

What is it? One of Auckland’s most dramatic black sand beaches, located just 40 minutes west of the city. There are no major eateries or retail here, just wild coastal beauty and (in summer) a rowdy colony of gannets and their fuzzy chicks – one of the only colonies in mainland New Zealand.

Why go? On a summer scorcher, Muriwai is a top spot for swimming, especially after tackling one of the stunning clifftop walks. But the real magic happens at dusk, when the sun sinks into the Tasman Sea and the sky explodes in streaks of gold, orange and pink over the black sand.

Time Out tip: Grab takeaway fish and chips in town and turn it into a sunset picnic on the sand. Just beware of the cheeky gannets in summer!

What is it? One of North Auckland’s best-kept secrets, boasting some of the region’s most beautiful white sand beaches and native forest walks. This 588-hectare national park is an achievable day trip from the city – roughly 80 minutes by car – but you can also pitch a tent for the night at the sheltered campsite, located just 100 metres from the beach.

Why go? Tāwharanui is easily one of the most gorgeous and underrated places to visit near Auckland. While it’s only accessible by car, it’s 100 per cent worth it to stroll along the pristine white sands, swim in the refreshing waters and picnic under shady pōhutukawa trees. Anchor Bay is your go-to for any water sports like surfing and kayaking, while the south side is a prime spot for fishing. If you’re hoping to take in the sparkling ocean views, follow the popular Ecology Trail that winds through rocky shoreline, quiet farmland and native bush. You might even spot kiwis after dusk!

Time Out tip: Tāwharanui Regional Park was New Zealand’s first integrated open sanctuary (mainland island), combining conservation of native species with recreation and farming. To help protect it, ensure you take all rubbish with you and clean your car and shoes before arriving.

What is it? Just ten minutes from the CBD, this bustling beach town on Auckland’s north shore offers the most uninterrupted views of Rangitoto Island. Its expansive stretch of white sand is lined with popular shops, restaurants and bars, plus there’s a historic foreshore ‘lava’ trail to wander. 

Why go? Takapuna has had a renaissance in recent years, now home to some excellent eating options right by the beach. Beyond the classic fish and chips (which we highly rate), make your way to 40th and Hurstmere, a quirky laneway serving up sushi, pizza, poke bowls, burgers, ramen, you name it. Work off your feed with a low-tide stroll along the sand from Takapuna Beach to Milford Reserve and back, finishing with a refreshing scoop from Takapuna Beach Café or Duck Island Ice Cream.

Time Out tip: For more than 35 years, Takapuna has hosted the largest weekly farmers' market in Auckland. It’s on every Sunday from 7am to 12pm at Waiwharariki Anzac Square.